Discover the various causes of morning nausea, from anxiety and low blood sugar to dehydration and GERD. Get the facts you need to address this common issue and improve your daily well-being.

Uncovering the Causes of Morning Nausea

Waking up with a queasy stomach can be a frustrating and disruptive experience. While morning sickness is a well-known symptom of pregnancy, there are several other potential causes of nausea in the morning, aside from expectant mothers. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the various factors that can contribute to this unpleasant condition and provide insights on how to address them.

Anxiety and Its Link to Morning Nausea

For many individuals, the start of the day can be a time of heightened anxiety. As they contemplate the day ahead, some people may experience a surge of overwhelming emotions that can manifest physically in the form of nausea. This is particularly common among those with anxiety disorders, who may fear the prospect of vomiting or have concerns about their overall health. The cycle of anxiety-related nausea can be a challenging one to break, but strategies such as meditation, therapy, and establishing a reliable morning routine can help mitigate these effects.

The Role of Low Blood Sugar in Morning Nausea

Hunger can also be a contributing factor to morning nausea. Low blood sugar levels, which often occur after several hours without a meal, can cause dizziness, confusion, and nausea. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with diabetes, who may need to carefully manage their medication and food intake to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Eating a meal immediately upon waking up can help prevent these unpleasant symptoms.

Migraines and Their Impact on Morning Nausea

Nausea is a common symptom associated with migraine headaches, as well as other types of headaches, such as cluster headaches. For some people, these types of headaches are more likely to occur in the morning, potentially due to factors like muscle tension, stress, or exposure to light or sound. Identifying and managing headache triggers can be crucial in reducing morning nausea.

Dehydration and Its Link to Morning Nausea

Dehydration can also contribute to feelings of nausea in the morning. After a night of sleep, the body may have lost a significant amount of fluids, leading to symptoms like lightheadedness, dry skin, and nausea. Individuals who consume alcohol or caffeine before bed may be particularly susceptible to morning dehydration. Drinking water or electrolyte-rich beverages can help alleviate these symptoms, but in some cases, a more serious underlying condition may be the root cause.

GERD and Its Role in Morning Nausea

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is another potential cause of morning nausea. This condition occurs when the contents of the stomach travel back up into the esophagus and throat, leading to a burning sensation, pain, and in some cases, nausea. The prone position during sleep can exacerbate this problem, and specific foods may trigger morning nausea in those with GERD. Over-the-counter antacids or prescription medications can provide relief for those struggling with this issue.

Muscle Tension and Its Impact on Morning Nausea

Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders can also contribute to morning nausea, often triggering headaches and disorientation. Sleeping in an unusual position or experiencing chronic pain conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis, can worsen muscle pain and lead to nausea upon waking. Addressing the underlying muscle tension through stretching, massage, or targeted treatment may help alleviate these symptoms.

In conclusion, the causes of morning nausea can be diverse, ranging from anxiety and low blood sugar to dehydration, GERD, and muscle tension. By understanding the potential root causes, individuals can work with their healthcare providers to develop an effective management plan and find relief from this disruptive condition. Remember, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s always best to seek medical attention to rule out any serious underlying issues.

What causes nausea in the morning, aside from pregnancy?

Morning sickness or nausea can be a sign of pregnancy, but there are other possible causes, such as low blood sugar and dehydration.

Many conditions, ranging from benign to very serious, may cause morning nausea. If symptoms do not improve within a few days, consider seeing a doctor.

Some medications can cause nausea. If a person feels nauseous after taking medication, they should talk to their doctor about it.

Morning nausea is not usually an emergency, unless it is accompanied by other serious symptoms.

In this article, we discuss some of the reasons, aside from pregnancy, a person may experience nausea in the morning.

Share on PinterestAnxiety may make a person feel nauseous in the morning.

Mornings can be times of high anxiety. A person may feel overwhelmed as they consider the day ahead. Some people with anxiety disorders experience nausea when they feel anxious.

Nausea can make anxiety worse, especially for people who fear vomiting or who have anxiety about their health. This can begin a cycle of progressively worsening anxiety-related nausea.

Some strategies can help with anxiety-related nausea. Meditation may help some people calm their anxious mind. Therapy and anti-anxiety medications can also be helpful. For anxiety about having a rushed morning, waking earlier and putting into place a reliable morning routine may help.

Low blood sugar can cause nausea, as well as symptoms such as dizziness, shaking, confusing, and even fainting. In the morning, hunger often causes low blood sugar, so eating a meal may help.

People with diabetes may develop low blood sugar due to the medications they have to take. After several hours without a meal, blood sugar can drop to very low levels for people with diabetes who are taking medication.

People can try eating a meal immediately after waking up to prevent low blood sugar in the morning. People with diabetes may need to discuss medication and food options with their doctors.

Nausea is a common symptom of migraine headaches. Some other headaches, especially cluster headaches, can also cause nausea. Head pain, unusual sensations, and sensitivity to light are signs of migraine.

Most people who experience headaches notice specific triggers. For some people, headaches appear early in the morning. This may be because of muscle tension, stress, or exposure to light or sound. Low blood sugar because of hunger may also trigger migraine headaches.

A doctor can help with choosing the right headache treatment. Identifying any headache triggers often helps. Some people notice immediate improvements with prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) headache remedies.

Share on PinterestDehydration may cause a person to feel nauseated.

Dehydration can make some people feel nauseated. Other symptoms of dehydration include lightheadedness or dizziness, very dry-looking skin, sunken eyes, dark urine, not urinating or urinating very infrequently, and exhaustion.

Dehydration may occur in the morning after a person goes many hours without drinking water. People who drink alcohol or caffeine immediately before bed may be more vulnerable to morning dehydration.

Diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration, especially in children. Prolonged sweating, especially when not drinking enough water, may also cause dehydration.

Drinking water or an electrolyte drink may help. Sometimes, however, a serious underlying condition makes it difficult for the body to absorb enough water. When this happens, drinking water will not cure dehydration.

See a doctor right away if drinking water does not help with symptoms of dehydration.

The condition gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when some of the stomach’s contents travel backward, up into the esophagus and the back of the throat. This can cause nausea, burning, and pain. Most people call this pain heartburn.

The pain of heartburn and GERD may be worse in the morning, since lying down makes it easier for stomach contents to move in the wrong direction. Some people also wake up with a cough or a hoarse voice.

Some people find that specific foods, especially acidic ones, can trigger morning nausea from GERD. So, some people may choose to avoid such foods.

Other people find relief from eating smaller meals or taking OTC antacids. Taking prescription drugs may offer relief from severe heartburn.

Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders that triggers a headache commonly causes nausea and disorientation. Some other forms of muscle pain can also make a person feel nauseated.

Sleeping in an unusual position can make muscle pain worse in the morning. Some people notice that chronic pain is worse when they first get up. Some pain conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis, or spinal arthritis, trigger a pain pattern that is worse in the morning.

Muscle pain that causes nausea can be temporary. It may also be a sign of a serious underlying condition such as arthritis, herniated discs, fibromyalgia, or a serious muscle condition.

People should see a doctor if the pain does not subside within a few days.

Some people find that gently stretching helps with morning muscle pain and the nausea that sometimes accompanies it. A heating pad or ice pack applied to the painful area for 20 minutes may also help.

Many drugs, including illegal and recreational drugs, prescription drugs, and even caffeine, can cause withdrawal symptoms. Nausea is one of the most common symptoms of withdrawal.

When a person goes longer than usual without a drug, they may experience withdrawal, including in the morning before their first use.

For people taking prescription drugs that trigger withdrawal, it is important to discuss symptoms with a doctor. Changing the dosing schedule or tapering off the drug might help.

For people addicted to drugs, including legal drugs such as caffeine, the best strategy for preventing morning nausea is to stop using them. Support groups, therapy, 12-step programs, and inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation may help.

Share on PinterestA person should call 911 or go to the emergency room if they have nausea with a high fever.

Go to the emergency room or call 911 for morning nausea occurring with:

• vomiting blood
• intense stomach pain that gets progressively worse
• a high fever
• changes in consciousness or awareness

People with diabetes who experience intense nausea that does not get better after eating may be experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis. If this occurs, they should call a doctor right away or go to the emergency room.

If morning nausea does not get better within a few days, call a doctor. It may be helpful to keep a log of triggers, including any recent diet, lifestyle, or medication changes. This can help doctors pinpoint the cause of nausea.

Waking up nauseous is an unpleasant way to start the day. In most cases, the nausea is a temporary inconvenience, not a sign of a serious medical condition.

The right combination of home remedies and medical treatments can almost always help. People should see a doctor if symptoms do not improve after a few days.

What are Four Common Causes of Chronic Nausea?

Nausea is a symptom with which we are all too familiar. Whether due to a stomach bug, motion sickness, or any of the other countless reasons, that sudden wave of queasiness can fill you with a sense of dread. Fortunately, more often than not, nausea is relatively short-lived and fades as its source passes. However, there are times when nausea may not be so quick to resolve, leaving sufferers with a constant feeling of stomach upset. It’s a frustrating condition that can easily interfere with day-to-day life, but chronic nausea doesn’t occur alone. It is a symptom of an underlying condition, and identifying that condition is key to feeling better.

Chronic Nausea and Gallstones

Gallstones are a condition that occurs when bile produced by the gallbladder develops into hardened deposits. These deposits are often unproblematic. However, should they create a blockage within a bile duct, symptoms such as nausea may result. These symptoms may become worse after eating, particularly if the meal is high in fat. Eliminating the gallstones will resolve nausea and may be accomplished with medications or, more commonly, gallbladder removal.

GERD and Chronic Nausea

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic form of acid reflux. Beyond the occasional bout of heartburn, GERD is diagnosed when a patient suffers episodes of reflux at least twice per week. As stomach acids back up into the esophagus, patients often feel nausea in addition to the burning sensation in their chest. These symptoms are often worse after a meal or when lying down. Prescription medications or even surgical interventions may be used to address the most severe cases of GERD and related symptoms.

Peptic Ulcer and Chronic Nausea

Peptic ulcers are open sores that occur within the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. These sores can lead to pain, weight loss, and of course, nausea. The most common sources of peptic ulcers are overuse of nonsteroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the presence of a common bacterial infection known as H. Pylori. Ulcers may be treated with antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, h3 blockers, or antacids.

Chronic Nausea and IBD

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is the name given to a group of conditions which cause inflammation within the digestive tract. The most commonly diagnosed forms of IBD are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Each of these conditions can cause many bothersome symptoms, including chronic nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. While neither disease has a known cure, there are medications and various treatment protocols that a gastroenterologist may employ to help patients find relief.

No matter the cause of chronic nausea, reaching a diagnosis and effective treatment plan is imperative. While the nausea may be uncomfortable but bearable, the underlying source could be a serious condition that requires immediate medical care. If you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or any other signs of gastrointestinal distress, seek the care of a gastroenterologist at your earliest convenience.

Chemotherapy – Cancer Support

CHEMOTHERAPY

Most people immediately associate chemotherapy with side effects. However, the control of complications of chemotherapy has improved significantly over the past twenty years. Many side effects that were once inevitable can now be either completely prevented or greatly reduced.

Severe nausea and vomiting force many to delay and even abandon therapy that has the potential to lead to a cure.

We now have a better understanding of how and why some chemotherapy drugs cause nausea and vomiting.

There are effective medicines that can help prevent or significantly relieve the symptoms of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. These drugs are called antiemetics.

Unfortunately, the problem has not yet been fully resolved. More than half of all patients receiving chemotherapy continue to experience some form of nausea and vomiting.

Cancer patients have the right to be treated without unnecessary suffering and to receive expert care for adverse events in the full treatment of their disease.

Left unchecked, nausea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, weakness, decreased ability to concentrate, and loss of appetite. If these symptoms increase or persist, the patient’s daily activities and quality of life suffer.

“Successful prevention of nausea and vomiting from the first cycle of chemotherapy increases the chances of success in further treatment.” (I. Cohen, 2011)

Causes of nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy

The main cause of nausea and vomiting is the effect of chemotherapy drugs on the vomiting center of the brain.

A reaction may occur either immediately after the start or during chemotherapy, or on the second to fifth day after chemotherapy.

Types of nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy

• “Acute nausea and vomiting: most often begins within a few hours after chemotherapy and lasts for the next 24 hours.
• Delayed nausea and vomiting: develops 24 hours after chemotherapy and may last more than 5 days.
• Conditioned nausea and vomiting: occurs before chemotherapy, usually in anticipation of the upcoming treatment. Most often occurs against the background of negative experience of the previous procedure. (I. Cohen, 2011

The best way to prevent conditioned vomiting is to take the appropriate combination of antiemetics before starting the 1st cycle of chemotherapy.

Factors affecting the occurrence of nausea and vomiting

A. Factors associated with chemotherapy

• Type of chemotherapy
• Chemo dose
• Frequency of treatments – the more often chemotherapy is given, the less time the patient has to recover.
• Route of administration – intravenous administration may cause nausea and vomiting earlier than oral administration (i.e. by mouth)

B. Individual response to chemotherapy

The likelihood of nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy is higher in younger patients, in women, in patients who have already suffered from nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy.

The following are factors that may increase the likelihood of nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy.

We have created this brochure to help answer some frequently asked questions and discuss current understanding of chemotherapy.

Today, thanks to the latest and most effective drugs, it is possible to neutralize potential and developed side effects, preventing unnecessary discomfort.

Is it possible to independently calculate risk factors

• Age under 50
• Nausea and vomiting during or after a previous course of chemotherapy
• Female
• Low alcohol consumption (less than 43 grams per day)
• Motion sickness (motion sickness), morning sickness, or both
• Feeling of anxiety, restlessness or fear
• Nausea during pregnancy

How many statements are true, so many individual risk factors, the more positive answers, the higher the risk of developing nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy.

Myth or reality?

“Nausea and vomiting are more common in older patients”

This is not true.

The younger the patient (under 50), the higher the risk of nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy.

Myth or reality?

“Nausea and vomiting is something everyone has to deal with after chemotherapy.”

It’s not.

There are special anti-emetic drugs, which may be called anti-emetics. They help prevent nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy and should be given individually.

Properly selected antiemetics can prevent or reduce nausea and vomiting.

The complex process of nausea and vomiting can be triggered by a variety of factors, including disorders of the gastric mucosa, or signals that travel to the brain to cause vomiting, or both.

Myth or reality?

“Nausea can be caused by anxiety”

True.

Nausea and vomiting can occur for a variety of reasons. Nausea is a complex process that involves the brain and the many systems of nerve cells that interact with it. Anxiety or nervousness is a normal reaction to cancer. Anxiety can also be a trigger for nausea. As the cycles of chemotherapy progress, it will become clear what can be expected during and after treatment. This alone can reduce nausea associated with anxiety.

Myth or reality?

“All chemotherapy drugs cause nausea and vomiting”

Not true.

Everyone reacts differently to chemotherapy. Although different types of chemotherapy have a greater or lesser ability to cause nausea and vomiting, each person reacts differently to each drug.

It is important to remember that even if nausea and vomiting are thought to be unlikely with any drug, up to 10% of patients will still suffer from these adverse effects. And doctors really can’t tell in advance who will experience these side effects.

Nausea and vomiting should be reported to your doctor and nurse so that these adverse events can be prevented before the next cycle of chemotherapy.

Mechanisms of nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy

Vomiting is controlled by the vomiting center located in the brain.

Chemotherapy sends a signal to the brain in one of two ways:

1. Direct stimulation of a specific area of ​​the brain.
2. Stimulation of a specific area of ​​the gastrointestinal tract (esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine).

• The effect of chemotherapy on the stomach and gastrointestinal tract occurs on the first day of chemotherapy due to the action on 5-HT3 (serotonin) receptors, which can provoke acute vomiting.
• On the first day slightly, but from 2-5 days more intensively, chemotherapy affects NK1 (neurokinin) receptors in the brain, which can cause delayed vomiting in the period from 2 to 5 days after chemotherapy.

Symptomatic treatment at the stage when nausea and vomiting have already occurred is ineffective.

Adequate antiemetic therapy should begin immediately with the first course of chemotherapy. It is unacceptable to leave more effective drugs “for later”, because. this increases the risk of nausea and vomiting in subsequent courses of chemotherapy, even in the case of the use of the most effective antiemetics.

Myth or reality?

“The higher the dose of antiemetics, the more effective they are”

This is not true.

Increasing the dose of an antiemetic drug above the recommended one does not lead to an increase in effectiveness, but only makes it more expensive, and sometimes dangerous to health. The combination of antiemetic drugs with different mechanisms of action, for example, neurokinin NK1 receptor antagonists with serotonin 5HT3 receptor antagonists, is most effective. The right combination of antiemetics is the key to good chemotherapy tolerance.

How to prevent nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy

There are now effective drugs to prevent nausea and vomiting. The doctor can choose the appropriate combination of antiemetics.

They are available as injections, suppositories and capsules.

Antiemetics should be taken even if the patient is not feeling ill.

The duration of antiemetics will depend on the type of chemotherapy and individual response. If one antiemetic is not effective enough, then the doctor can always replace it with another. In addition, combinations of two or three antiemetics are often required.

Myth or reality?

“Sometimes you need to take several types of anti-emetics”

True.

Some people need 2 or 3 antiemetics to control nausea and vomiting. Some chemotherapy drugs cause nausea and vomiting mostly in the first few hours after chemotherapy, and some up to 5 days after chemotherapy.

Similarly, some antiemetics are better for nausea and vomiting that occurs immediately after chemotherapy, these include drugs that block 5HT3 receptors, and others for nausea and vomiting that lasts up to 5 days after chemotherapy, these include drugs – NK1 receptor blockers. Remember that each of the antiemetics has one specific mechanism of action, so for the best effect, a combination of antiemetic drugs with different mechanisms of action is used. Antiemetics are given prior to chemotherapy and then taken at home. Antiemetics should be taken as prescribed by your doctor to get the best possible control of nausea and vomiting.

And if the prescribed drugs do not work, you must notify the attending physician, because there are other drugs and the antiemetic regimen can be adjusted.

Myth or reality?

“The development of nausea and vomiting means that chemotherapy is acting on the tumor”

This is not true.

Nausea and vomiting after chemotherapy are side effects, not a good sign. Although the appearance of side effects indicates that the drug is inside, the side effects do not at all indicate whether the chemotherapy drug is working on the tumor. Whether a chemotherapy drug is working will be known from follow-up studies that will be conducted after treatment. Therefore, there is no reason to ignore side effects, they can and should be prevented.

Chemotherapy can cause nausea and vomiting by acting on the vomiting center in the brain and on receptors in the stomach wall.

Nutrition advice

• It is very important to eat on treatment days. It is recommended to have a snack before the chemotherapy session.
• Eat small meals and slowly.
• Food should be at room temperature or colder.
• Drink enough (lots of) liquids.
• Do not go to bed immediately after eating.
• It is better to eat before the feeling of hunger arises, hunger can exacerbate nausea.
• Do not force yourself to eat while feeling nauseous.
• When eating is difficult, it is better to give preference to frequent meals in small quantities, rather than large meals. On days when you feel good and your appetite is normal, you can eat as usual.
• Eat and drink easily digestible foods, such as crushed foods, dry crackers, and sour candies.
• Try to eat when it is possible to eat more food. For example, some patients find it easiest to eat breakfast.
• Food should contain enough protein and calories to maintain a normal body weight.
• Do not hesitate to turn to loved ones for help in buying and preparing food.
• Maintain good oral hygiene and rinse your mouth after vomiting.
• Try to breathe fresh air during an attack of nausea. You can use a fan.
• It is necessary not to strain, to allocate sufficient time for rest.

Fatigue (fatigue and lack of energy) is common with chemotherapy. Thoughtful daily routine, rest, understanding your limitations and proper nutrition will help relieve these symptoms.

Most side effects are temporary and should go away. It is necessary to contact the medical staff if the symptoms continue to bother.

Myth or reality?

“Patient nausea does not bother doctors”

This is not true.

Doctors are concerned about the side effects of treatment, including nausea. Nausea may be perceived as a minor inconvenience, but it can be a serious side effect. People find it difficult to eat when they feel sick, and anyone can have trouble eating properly. This can hinder your recovery. In addition, people may simply feel unwell when they are sick, and this may increase their feelings of melancholy and depression about the illness. Sometimes the state of health is so bad that patients think to refuse chemotherapy treatment. Naturally, doctors do not want this to happen.

Sample observation diary

Chemo cycle no. ________

Nausea (within 5 days after chemotherapy, the patient notes whether there were episodes of nausea and can rate the intensity from 1 (none) to 10 (severe nausea))
Chemo Day
1 DAY Number:_______	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
2 DAY Number:_______	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
3 DAY Number:_______	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
4 DAY Number:_______	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
5 DAY Number:_______	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Nausea and vomiting are not the only negative effects of chemotherapy. In this field, the patient can record other undesirable effects if they were

• I do not feel hungry (loss of appetite)
• Pain
• Diarrhea (loose stools)
• Constantly feeling tired (weakness)
• Constipation
• Tingling in the legs or toes
• Other ______________

Observation diary can be used to assess the patient’s well-being during chemotherapy.

Vomiting (within 5 days after chemotherapy, the patient notes whether there were episodes of vomiting and how many times)
Chemo Day
1 DAY Number:_______	Did you vomit today?_________ How many times?_______________
2 DAY Number:_______	Did you vomit today?_________ How many times?_______________
3 DAY Number:_______	Did you vomit today?_________ How many times?_______________
4 DAY Number:_______	Did you vomit today?_________ How many times?_______________
5 DAY Number:_______	Did you vomit today?_________ How many times?_______________

Notes _____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________

0002 ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Measures to prevent and correct potential adverse events during antitumor therapy Advice to patients

Hair loss

Some anticancer drugs affect the cells of the hair follicles and cause temporary hair loss.

● When combing and washing your hair, be gentle and use a wide-toothed comb.

● Avoid excessive combing or pulling on the hair, such as when tying braids or ponytails

● Avoid exposure to very high temperatures such as blow dryers or pouring tongs

● Outdoors, wear a hat or scarf to keep warm

● Use sunscreen, sunscreen or a hat to protect your scalp from the sun

● Wear a hairnet when sleeping: we recommend using a satin pillowcase

● When choosing a hat, give preference to cotton

● Avoid permanent waving and hair coloring during the first few months of new hair growth

Rash, hand and foot syndrome

A rash is a change in the color or surface of the skin. Palmar-plantar syndrome includes redness, swelling, pain and/or blisters on the palmar surface of the hands and/or the soles of the feet

● Wear cotton

● Avoid exposure to heat and sun

● Wash hands and feet with room temperature water and gently use towel

● Take oatmeal baths and use a fragrance- and alcohol-free lotion while skin is still damp

● Avoid activities that may cause pressure or friction, wear soft slippers and thick socks

Anemia

Anemia is a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin in the blood. The amount of hemoglobin determines the ability of blood to deliver oxygen to organs and tissues

● Eat a balanced diet. Ask your doctor or dietitian about the diet that is right for you.

● Get up slowly. You may feel dizzy if you get up too quickly. When getting up from a lying position, it is recommended to sit for 1 minute

● Balance rest and activity

● Plan your activities throughout the day, save the maximum amount of energy for the most important things

● Report any increase in dizziness, shortness of breath or fatigue immediately

● Drink plenty of fluids. Sleep for one hour several times a day

Neutropenia

Decrease in the number of leukocytes, blood cells responsible for protecting the body from infections.

● Avoid crowded places and do not visit patients with infectious diseases, cough or fever

● Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Carry hand sanitizer

● Use disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces and parts you touch

● Avoid anything that could cause cuts, scratches or other damage to the skin

● Wash cuts and scrapes with warm water, soap and antiseptic before they heal

● Wash raw fruits and vegetables well before eating them

● Do not eat raw or undercooked fish, seafood, meat, chicken, or eggs. They may contain bacteria that can cause infectious disease

● Brush your teeth after meals and before bed with a soft toothbrush. Use an alcohol-free mouthwash

● Check yourself for fever at least once a day or as often as your doctor recommends

● Report any signs and symptoms of infection immediately, such as fever (over 37°C) or chills

Thrombocytopenia

Decrease in the number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are cells that help form blood clots.

● Avoid activities that may damage the integrity of the skin

● Protect skin from cuts, scratches and sharp objects

● Do not blow your nose or cough with great force

● Do not wear tight collars, cuffs or waistbands

● Use only an electric razor (not a razor blade) for shaving

● Brush your teeth with the extra soft toothbrush

● Wear shoes all the time, even inside the house and in the hospital

Stomatitis or inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth

Pain, discoloration, fissures or ulcers of the oral mucosa. They can occur anywhere in the mouth, such as on the gums, tongue, cheeks.

● Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste, not toothpowder

● Rinse your mouth with a mild saline solution, bicarbonate of soda. Gargle it all over your mouth and throat, then spit it out

● Eat soft or pureed foods; avoid spicy, hot, crunchy or brittle, very salty or sour foods or drinks

● Use drinking straw

● Avoid carbonated drinks, alcoholic drinks and tobacco

● Gargle with water several times throughout the day; suck on ice chips or sugar candies; chew sugar-sweetened gum

● Check your mouth and tongue every day. If an ulcer, white patch or infection occurs, inform your doctor immediately

Decreased appetite

Decreased appetite may last for days, weeks or even months

● Eat your favorite foods often, in small portions

● Try to eat high-calorie foods that are easy to eat, such as pudding, jelly, ice cream, sherbet, yogurt, or milkshakes

● Drink fluids between meals, not during them. Drinking fluids with meals promotes satiety.

● Try light exercise one hour before meals

● Try liquid food or spices

Nausea and vomiting

Nausea is an unpleasant sensation in the stomach and throat which may or may not result in vomiting.

Vomiting is a violent contraction of the muscles of the stomach that causes the contents of the stomach to be expelled through the mouth.

● Avoid fatty, fried, spicy or very sweet foods

● Eat light meals and drink clear fluids

● Eat smaller meals more often

● Reduce spices when cooking and eat food at room temperature to reduce odor

● Eat food you like

● Try to distract yourself with your favorite pastime or hobby

Constipation

The stool is sparse, the stool loses water and passes through the intestines with difficulty due to a violation of its tone

● Eat more fiber foods every day: bran breads and whole grain cereals, nuts, raw vegetables, fruit juices, fresh fruits with skins, seeds and dried fruits such as dates, dried apricots, raisins, prunes

● Avoid foods and drinks that cause gas or constipation: cabbage, broccoli, cheese, eggs and carbonated drinks

● Drink at least 8 cups of water or other liquids every day. Plum juice, hot water with lemon, coffee or tea help stimulate intestinal motility

● Exercise therapy, do as much light exercise as possible. Talk to your doctor about ways to increase your activity

● Be sure to check with your doctor before using fiber supplements, laxatives, stool softeners, or enemas.

Diarrhea

Frequent soft, liquid or watery stools 3 or more times a day

● Drink plenty of fluids – tea, orange juice, clear broth

● Eat a sparing diet of bananas, rice, applesauce and toast (BRAT diet)

● Eat foods high in potassium such as bananas, apricots and potatoes

● Eat small meals often

● Avoid dairy, fatty, fried and hot or spicy foods

● Avoid alcohol and caffeine

Shortness of breath

Labored, shortened breathing

● Do relaxation exercises

● Sit up straight, lean forward slightly and place your forearms on the arms of a chair or on your knees to help your lungs expand

● Sleep with multiple pillows or in a reclining chair

● Practice breathing exercises such as diaphragmatic breathing (also called abdominal breathing) and pursed-lip breathing

Fatigue/weakness

Weakness and lack of energy or strength in normal activities

● Plan your day, set your priorities

● Sleep for one hour several times a day

● Eat enough and drink plenty of fluids

● Take short walks in the fresh air

● Make more time for leisure activities (eg listening to music or reading)

● Stay as active as possible, but be sure to strike a balance between rest and activity

● Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including over-the-counter medicines, herbal medicines, and vitamin supplements

Flushing

Repeated episodes of flushing and sweating with a feeling of warmth, often accompanied by palpitations or anxiety, sometimes followed by chills

● Avoid caffeine, smoking and alcohol

● Wear lighter cotton clothing

● Use fans

● Carry cold drinks with you

● Use deep breathing and relaxation techniques

● Use a cooling bandana. Soak a bandana in cold water and wrap around your head or neck for a long lasting effect

Specialist help

Nausea in a child: causes and treatment

Nausea in a child can be provoked by a huge number of different factors. Therefore, it is important to immediately determine its cause in order to provide the child with appropriate assistance.

Possible illnesses that cause nausea in children:

1. Poisoning. Food intoxication most often occurs after a child has consumed poor-quality or spoiled foods. Nausea and vomiting in such products are most often provoked by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli. Also, the cause of poisoning may be the child’s consumption of poisonous mushrooms or plants. In addition to nausea, poisoning causes fever, weakness, dizziness, and painful cramps in the stomach area. Poisoning appears on average three hours after the child has eaten a poor-quality product.

2. Intestinal infection. Intestinal viruses and bacteria such as salmonella and rotoviruses are also common causes of nausea and intestinal infections. Infectious diseases are a rather serious problem that leads to disruption of the immune system and destructive processes in the body. They are transmitted from a human carrier by airborne droplets by eating spoiled food and by contact with wild animals. Often the infection remains on the dirty hands of the child. Intestinal infections tend to appear suddenly. First, the child complains of fatigue, he has headaches and loss of appetite, up to a complete refusal to eat. After several hours of this condition, the child begins to feel nausea and pain in the abdomen, vomiting and diarrhea. Body temperature rises sharply, on average up to 39degrees.

3. SARS. This group of diseases often occurs in childhood. They are provoked by influenza viruses, streptococci, enteroviruses and mycoplasmas. They manifest themselves in a sharp increase in temperature. Before this, some patients have a feeling of weakness, nausea, loss of appetite. They are followed by muscle pain, chills, cough and pharyngitis. The children’s body is most susceptible to such diseases in the winter.

4. Meningitis. With meningitis, nausea is the very first symptom. Soon it develops into a strong vomiting. Mobility and activity decrease, there is no appetite. The child becomes sensitive to light, a high temperature appears. If these symptoms appear, you should immediately call an ambulance.

5. Tick-borne encephalitis. This disease affects the brain, causing nausea and fever. Children are most susceptible to this disease in the summer, when encephalitis mites are activated. The probability of contracting encephalitis from a tick is 6%. If your child is bitten by a tick, you need to urgently seek medical help. Encephalitis is an extremely dangerous disease that can lead to neurological problems and psychiatric complications.

6. Foreign object. Nausea can be a reaction of the body to an external object that the child has swallowed. It appears on average five minutes after swallowing.

Get the child upright and offer him water. Next, you need to call the doctors, because it is difficult for a non-specialist to reliably assess the condition of the child.

Doctors will conduct an examination and provide first aid. If necessary, the child is hospitalized. Before the doctors arrive, you need to give the child water in small portions, even if he does not want it. You can relieve nausea with special means. Suitable for this:

1. Cerucal. This tool is very effective. It cleanses the body, absorbs toxins, reduces nausea and vomiting. The dosage for adults and children is different, so the instructions for use for the drug Cerucal are required to be read.

2. Metoclopramide. These tablets eliminate vomiting, genetic hiccups, atony and hypotension of the stomach and intestines. Also, this remedy is prescribed for problems with the removal of bile from the body. This is a complex medicine, so you can use it not only when vomiting occurs, but also as a monthly course for a general improvement in the condition of the intestines and stomach. For an adult, one dose is 10 mg, half is enough for a child. It is not recommended to use such tablets in a complex way on their own. It is better to consult a doctor before doing this.

3. Dramina. This medicine fights very well against nausea and dizziness in chemical poisoning. It is often given to cancer patients after chemotherapy to cope with its side effects. Can be used only from the age of seven, the child will be enough 10 mg. The drug should be taken with plenty of water for better absorption.

4. Zofran. This substance blocks vomiting receptors, speeding up metabolism. It is sold in capsule form and is injected into the body in the form of injections or in the form of a syrup. For children, a dose of 4 mg will suffice.

Fortunately, sickness is not always the cause of nausea. In this case, the problem can be dealt with much easier and without medical help.

Other causes of nausea in children are:

1. Stress. An abrupt change of scenery, environmental pressure, external factors, an unpleasant sight can provoke vomiting in a child. This is especially true when changing schools. Such nausea is not critical, it passes by itself, but it is extremely unpleasant. Help your child reduce stress. Chamomile decoctions, mint and lemon balm work well with this.

2. Increased activity. With too violent games or physical overwork, the child may begin to feel sick. In this case, nausea is the body’s natural response to dehydration. Non-carbonated mineral water will help. It is also worth limiting outdoor games immediately after eating.

3. Nausea in transport. Children with a weak vestibular apparatus often experience nausea in transport. This is a real problem for parents, as the child becomes difficult to transport.